Eby says being ex-minister, Sajjan’s role is to help B.C. industries access federal defence funding stream

October 10, 2025

Parteek Singh Mahal

Premier David Eby said that the government is moving strategically to ensure British Columbia captures a significant share of a newly announced federal defence spending commitment, by appointing former federal Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan as an advisor.

Premier Eby during an interview on RED FM’s Harjinder Thind Show, clarified Sajjan’s key role will be to assist the province in securing its fair portion of the federal government’s pledge to invest 3% of Canada’s GDP in defence.

“We have brought Sajjan on as an advisor to help B.C. secure its fair share of the federal government’s commitment to invest 3% of Canada’s GDP in defence,” Premier Eby stated.

The move is a clear indication that the B.C. government views the federal commitment not just as a matter of national security, but as a major economic opportunity for the province’s industries.

Sajjan’s background is seen as instrumental to this provincial strategy. A former Vancouver Member of Parliament, he served as the federal Minister of National Defence from 2015 to 2021, and has a distinguished military career as a Lieutenant-Colonel in the Canadian Army.

Premier Eby highlighted that this deep experience is exactly what the province needs. “Sajjan understands the procurement process and will help ensure that B.C. gets investment in areas like shipbuilding and the maintenance of new submarines and naval vessels,” Eby explained.

The advisory role is expected to focus on helping B.C. businesses, academic institutions, and communities position themselves to take advantage of the impending multi-billion dollar federal procurement spree. This includes identifying opportunities within the marine, aerospace, and dual-use technology sectors, such as AI and quantum computing.

While the government has clarified that Sajjan will not be lobbying the federal government on B.C.’s behalf, his unique insight into the military’s procurement structure and strategic needs is seen as a major advantage in a competition that will see other provinces vying for the same dollars.

The Premier’s comments confirm that the province is actively working to develop a Sovereignty and National Defence Strategy to maximize its position, with Sajjan’s advice serving as a key pillar in this proactive approach to federal funding.